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Neuveuno Circo perform at Siamsa Tíre theatre, Tralee hosted by National Circus Festival of Ireland
Photo: Abigail Denniston
Chantal McCormick performing an aerial show during Waterford Spraoi
Photo: Waterford in Your Pocket
Ellis Grover performing funambulism over the Claddagh Basin as part of Galway Community Circus’ event Lifeline
Photo: Emilija Jefremova
Community circus class at Taking Flight Dublin: education & performance
Photo: Radoslave Katanik
Dublin Circus Project | 'Prometheus' | Trinity College Dublin | Dublin Circus Festival
Photo: Léo Pinheiro
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Circus attracts high audience numbers each year including many rural audiences and members of new communities.
The Arts Council offers a wide range of financial supports across artforms and arts practices, including circus.
Information and advice for circus artists seeking funding
Links to circus organisations funded by the Arts Council.
The findings of a research initiative focused on mapping the range, quality and needs of building-based infrastructures for circus in Ireland.
How do I know which Circus funding award to apply for?
How do I know if my practice is eligible under Circus funding?
I am an early-stage professional artist, what can I apply for?
View all questions
Circus Building Infrastructure(PDF, 11.9MB, 84 pages)
Circus, Street Arts and Spectacle Policy and Strategy 2018(PDF, 0.514 MB, 4 pages)
Making Great Art Work - Arts Council Strategy (2016–2025)(PDF, 3.29MB, 48 pages)
Framework for the welfare of animals presented in the arts(PDF, 0.37MB, 28 pages)
We talk with Circus artists who have been funded by the Arts Council
Darragh McLoughlin explains the impact of the Next Generation and Bursary awards on his practice
Aerial performer Elaine McCague explains the value of her Bursary award to her practice.
Irish circus artist Ronan Brady speaks about the value of his funding from the Arts Council for his practice.
Contact the members of our Circus department
087 185 6173
087 380 5059